As a travel enthusiast and a lover of budget journeys, I often use overnight transportations. Although I’ve experienced numerous night buses, boarding a night train in Uzbekistan was a first for me. Here’s an inside look at what it’s like to travel through this Central Asian country by train, experiencing some Soviet Union in modern life.
What’s It Like to Travel on Uzbekistan’s Night Trains?
The night trains in Uzbekistan, still from Soviet times, operate a regular schedule connecting all major cities daily. These trains offer two classes: economy and premium.
Economy Class: This option features a compartment with six beds and no door, offering a basic level of comfort and security.
Premium Class: With only four beds and a lockable door, this class promises a bit more privacy and security. I found myself in a nearly full train, leading me to choose the premium seat. While it didn’t quite feel ‘premium,’ it was part of the journey.
Despite the lack of luxurious bedding, the small beds were manageable. I managed some sleep, though it wasn’t the most comfortable, leaving me with a bit of back pain.
Sound-wise, the experience was decent, possibly helped by my use of headphones.
Costs of Night Train Travel in Uzbekistan
My journey took me on a 13-hour ride from Urgench, near the Turkmenistan border, to Tashkent, costing less than 25 Euros with a bed included. This is significantly cheaper than flying and also saves a night’s accommodation, making it a great choice for budget travelers.
Tips Before Boarding a Night Train in Uzbekistan
- Punctuality: The trains surprisingly run on time, so it’s problematic to be late.
- Booking: Always book your ticket in advance. The trains often sell out, and I was lucky to get one of the last tickets.
- Privacy: Be prepared to share your compartment with strangers.
- Stops: The train makes stops at all major cities including Bukhara, Samarkand, and the capital, Tashkent, making it easy to reach your desired destinations.
- Connectivity: Expect little to no internet connectivity. My e-SIM couldn’t find a signal throughout the journey.
My Personal Experience
Traveling by night train in Uzbekistan was a mixed bag. On the positive side, I saved on accommodation costs. However, the sleep quality was poor, and I eagerly awaited my arrival in Tashkent. As a German accustomed to more punctual trains, I appreciated the organization of Uzbekistan’s rail system. While I sometimes regretted not flying, the night train was a more rapid and practical option than hitchhiking across Uzbekistan. Despite the comfort levels not being high, I would recommend it for those seeking an authentic and budget-friendly way to travel long distances in the country.
Let me know in the comments, if you got some interesting train stories to share.
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